Corporate Counsel

At Bernhard, we blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision. With over 100 years of experience, we are a pillar of stability in the construction and energy infrastructure industry and a leader in engineering and innovative energy solutions. Our commitment to leveraging emerging technologies ensures that we remain at the forefront of the Energy- as- a-S service sector. We believe in growth—not just for our business, but for our people. Our team members have the opportunity to advance their careers in a supportive environment that values continuous learning and development. We embrace innovation and encourage creative problem -solving to tackle the energy infrastructure and energy challenges of tomorrow. Inclusion is at the heart of our culture. We strive to create a workplace where every voice is heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive our success. Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and a future of groundbreaking advancements. At Bernhard, stability, innovation, and growth are more than just values—they are the pillars of our continued success.

The Corporate Counsel is responsible for managing aspects of the company’s legal needs including contract review and strategy planning. Work with executives, risk management and the board for guidance and coaching on industry matters. Provide senior management with effective advice on company strategies and their implementation, manage the legal function, and obtain and oversee the work of outside counsel. They are directly involved in complex business transactions in negotiating critical contracts and serve on the company’s contract compliance committee.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Performs pre-bid reviews of contract requirements, insurance and bonds.
• Participates in the definition and development of corporate policies, procedures and programs and provide continuing counsel and guidance
• Provides guidance and legal implications of all matters.
• Serves as legal advisor on all major business transactions, including acquisitions, divestitures and joint ventures.
• Judges the merits of any cases filed against or on behalf of the company, work with the appropriate executive(s) to define a strategic defense and approve settlements of disputes where warranted.
• Assumes ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the company conducts its business in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Selection, retention, management and evaluation of all outside counsel.
• Advises on legal aspects of the company’s financing. Including assessing and advising on current and future business structures and legal entities.
• Oversees company’s claims and potential claims. Draft or approve pleadings, motions, legal memoranda, and discovery; court appearances and motion practice; preparation of litigation budgets and reports.
• Assists in forming corporations as well as legal documents such as preparation of leases, contracts, letters of intent, subcontracts and attachments, claim releases, joint-venture agreements, non-compete agreements, and company media statements.

Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• Juris Doctor from an accredited ABA Law School.
• Admitted to practice and member of the bar for appropriate districts.
• Minimum five (5) years’ experience as a practicing litigation lawyer, preferably initially with an established law firm before moving to an in-house position.
• Exposure to and/or familiarity with the construction industry, liens, contracts, subcontracts, and risk management.
• Broad overview and experience in intellectual property law.
• Experience dealing with Louisiana state contracts and private commercial construction contracts.
• Experience working on matters of corporate governance and with a board of directors is required.
• Experience or ability to provide cost effective management of outside legal resources.
• Familiarity and understanding of Sarbanes-Oxley and other federal acquisitions regulations.
• Represent company in a professional manner.
• Ability to think analytically and a strong eye for detail.
• Decision-making abilities.
• Effective negotiating skills.
• Ability to understand broad business issues.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented and willing to tackle various ongoing projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Versed in the industry and the Company’s competitors.
• Ability to multitask and perform duties outside of the scope of work when necessary.

Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• N/A

Travel Requirements

• 0-5% of time will be spent traveling to job site(s)/office location.

Physical/Work Environment Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Climbing stairs.
• Remaining in a stationary position, often kneeling, standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
• Quiet environment.
• Light work that includes adjusting and/or moving objects up to 20 pounds.

Bernhard is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities, and participates in the e-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.